M is for...Morocco and Mom

I know my theme this month is my Abu Dhabi experience, so you're probably wondering what does Morocco have to do with Abu Dhabi. It's part of my experience, I promise.


Three weeks ago, we had our Spring Break. 


Best. Spring Break. Ever. 


The first week, I went to Marrakech, Morocco. I LOVED it! OMG, it was so beautiful! Although Morocco is a predominantly Arab country like the U.A.E. it was not the same. The atmosphere was different. Friendlier. More relaxed. I saw more smiles. Don't get me wrong. Abu Dhabi is a great place to live. And there are some friendly people. It's just that I saw more in Morocco. Marrakech isn't as rich as Abu Dhabi. I didn't see many high rise buildings. But it was still beautiful to me. And it rained! It doesn't rain much here, so we were excited to see rain. Mountains, waterfalls, greenery, all add to the beauty of Marrakech. 


I love the accent of the people there. They speak French, Arabic, English, and Berber (Berbers are the indigenous people of Morocco...kind of like the US Native Americans). Their accent was a mixture of French & Arabic. Beautiful. I especially love the accent when a gorgeous man spoke. Yes, the men were gorgeous. I'd heard about Moroccan men before going, but I paid no attention to it. I'm glad to say it is true. The men - actually, the men and women - are beautiful.


I have to say, I fell in love with Morocco. If they were hiring English teachers, that would be the next place I move to (unless, of course Puerto Rico came calling). By the way, we also visited Casablanca. Gorgeous as well! I took too many pics to add, but here are a few...

Mountain View

We climbed a mountain to see the beautiful waterfalls!

Takes your breath away, doesn't it?

Beautiful Casablanca beach!

The second week, my mom visited. I was so excited! I miss my family and having my mom with me...priceless. We relaxed the first few days so she could get over her jetlag and time difference. We visited the Grand Mosque, Dubai, Emirates Palace, Marina Mall, went on a dinner cruise...and enjoyed each other's company. By the time she left, Mama said she felt like a queen. I'm glad, cos she so deserves it. I love my mommy!

We visited the Grand Mosque. Had to wear shaylas in order to get in.

And now for some Arabic vocabulary...


ma'a salama - goodbye
marhaban - welcome